Welcome to Beauty School!  Every Monday, JET experts will teach you how to preserve your sexy.  This week, make-up and hair expert Dre Brown offers insights on frugal foundation finds through her “Drugstore Diaries” series. 

We’ve all heard that the proof is in the puddin’, right? Well, who would have thought that would apply to finding a quality solution to the generations-long battle for a good foundation fit?

Just journey a few aisles over from the toothpaste in your local drug store and you’ll discover some trial-worthy options with the power to help perfect your skin tone and play nice with your budget. Drug store cosmetics sections are brimming with options, but the savvy woman of color in search of quality and value must know what to look for.

Here is what you need to consider during your cosmetic quest:

Shade Variety: Does the brand provide several hues or only a handful?

With our multi-dimensional complexions and potential for dark spots and hyper-pigmentation, women of color benefit from a broad spectrum of options from which to choose. We oftentimes require two or more foundation shades to achieve our perfect match. Black Opal True Color Stick Foundation retails for around $10 and boasts 10 rich shades from the fairest “kalahari sand” to the deepest ebony “black walnut.” Creamy and easy to apply with one’s fingers or stippling sponge, this product sweetens the deal with a bonus built-in SPF 15.

Wearability: How often will you need to touch-up/re-apply?

Afraid gaining a few extra dollars in your wallet means losing out on a foundation with staying power? Worry not. Seek out a product that promotes a dual-property finish — for example, primer and foundation in one or cream-to-powder technology. These varieties are usually designed with endurance in mind. One of my new faves is CoverGirl Queen Collection’s All Day Flawless 3 in 1, which retails for less than $15 in most drug stores. This is one hardworking foundation that provides a look of liquid, concealer, and powder in a single application! Try stippling this with your fingertips or applying in circles with a kabuki brush for a soft and even finish that lasts.

Skin Benefits: Does the product promote a healthy complexion?

Saving on your foundation shouldn’t require you to sacrifice the health of your skin. Take inventory of your complexion needs before investing in a foundation. Consider conditions like acne, sensitivity, dryness, and uneven tone and explore products that promote support for those needs. Perfect Blend Mineral Foundation by Black Radiance is oil, talc, and fragrance free and non-comedogenic so it won’t result in clogged pores that can cause acne. Beauties looking for a lighter alternative to creams and liquids may also love this variety’s loose powder form. With a price under $10, this perfect blend might be a perfect match for the frugal foundation shopper.

More About Dre:

Infusing each creative encounter with joy-inducing laughter, Dre Brown offers both something for the eye and the soul. Southern-born with big city savvy, this free spirit sees beauty as a vehicle through which she cultivates delight and empowerment. Dre currently calls Harlem NYC home, and splits her time between makeup artistry & hair design, writing, and entrepreneurship. Follow her @aDre_InTheLife.

[nggallery id=108 template=carousel]